Advanced oxidation processes, which degrade organic micropollutants, offer a solution whenever the removal of micropollutants is not practical nor possible using other methods.

This research involves inventorizing possible applicable advanced oxidation techniques for drinking water treatment. Apart from UV/H2O2 processes, many more advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have been developed that might be of interest for drinking water treatment. Some techniques have actually been improved to the point where their original drawbacks have been mitigated or even eliminated; examples would be the application of ferrate (which is today available in stable form) and catalytic ozone (which possibly makes the inhibition of bromate formation possible). In addition, interesting combinations of UV with, for instance, ozone or a photocatalyst (e.g., TiO2), or of ozone and hydrogen peroxide, offer interesting possibilities.

Research into the most promising oxidation techniques

In this inventorization we examine the specific advantages and disadvantages of the AOPs, the conditions under which we could apply them or not, and the formation of possible by-products. Then we will conduct further research on the most promising oxidation technique(s) that could be applied in drinking water production.

Further experimental research

The results of the inventorization of advanced oxidation processes will be the subject of a report and a presentation to be made to the water companies. Then, in consultation with the water companies, we will decide which AOP(s) will be the focus of further experimental research; we will take into account the possible implementation of a specific technique at a water company’s site (and thus of the treatment circumstances, such as the water quality). We will present the results of this research in a BTO report, a specialised article and possibly a scientific publication.

An agent is added to the polluted water, which under UV radiation degrades the pollution.

Bas Wols works as a scientific researcher on the KWR drinking water treatment team. He models water purification processes such as UV/H2O2 oxidation, membrane filtration, sand filtration, softening and aeration.…